Rising Phone Thefts in Nairobi: Practical Tips to Protect Your Device
With phone thefts increasing in Nairobi, experts advise keeping devices out of sight in crowded places and securing phones with biometric locks and tracking tools.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 25, 2026
2 min read
Phone theft is becoming a growing concern in Nairobi, prompting calls for residents to adopt safer habits to protect their devices and personal data.
Key Safety Measures
- Avoid displaying your phone openly when walking near busy bus termini, crowded streets, and narrow alleys.
- Be cautious when using phones near open windows while travelling in matatus or taxis, as this increases vulnerability to snatch theft.
- Enhance phone security by enabling biometric locks, setting a SIM PIN, and activating tracking services such as Find My Device or Find My iPhone.
- Record your phone's IMEI number by dialing *#06#; this helps in identifying and recovering stolen devices.
Additional Precautions
- If your phone is stolen, report the incident promptly to the police or the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
- Protect financial apps with separate PINs and two-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access.
- When purchasing second-hand phones, buy only from reputable dealers and request proof of ownership to avoid acquiring stolen goods.
Adopting these simple yet effective steps can significantly reduce the risk of phone theft and safeguard personal information amid Nairobi's rising crime rates.
